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From Sochi to Elbrus: 16 reasons to visit the Russian Caucasus
You are waiting for ruddy huchins, homemade jam made of cones, amazing views and locals who are fit to take hospitality lessons.
Read about the most tasty places of the Russian Caucasus, which can not be missed!
Tickle your nerves in Dargavs
North Ossetia - Alanya
If your blood gets cold in your veins even from movie thrillers, Dargaves is better to bypass. Near this village is the largest necropolis of the Caucasus: almost a hundred crypts on the mountainside. Large and beautiful tombs, similar to the temples of Angkor, belong to noble families, but the rest are equally impressive. If you are not afraid, look out the window to see the bones and mummies. Many are in wooden boats, why is unknown. When the level of horror goes off the scale, move to the 15-meter Mamsurov family tower - the highest in Ossetia. She turned at least four centuries, and the Mamsurovs themselves, according to legend, lead their kind from the mythical Ossetian prince Taga.
How to get to Dargaves: The nearest city with a railway station and an airport is Vladikavkaz. Then take the bus to the village of Jimara or look for a taxi.
Admire Elbrus.
Border of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia
At first glance at the two-headed peak you understand: Elbrus is not an ordinary mountain. Under the expanses of snow and ice, an ancient volcano is hidden, which has been worshipped by different peoples for thousands of years. To join the modern Elbrus fan club, settle in a nice hotel in Terskol or on the Azau glade and give yourself time to get used to the heights. When you feel that the heart is pounding calmly, and at least have enough energy, jump on the rope and soar under the clouds. Get to the top station at an altitude of 3847 meters and feel yourself on another planet.
Want higher? Think carefully if you are ready to climb. It will require good fitness, climbing equipment and an extra week for acclimatization, and the instructor will be responsible for safety. If you are not ready for radical steps, just take a walk and take a spectacular selfie in the snow even in the middle of summer. Going back to the foot, you can go on a horse or go on a mini hike to the waterfall of the Maiden Spit. In the evening, celebrate the acquaintance with the highest peak of Russia and Europe, sipping mulled wine and viewing the starry sky with the silhouettes of the mountains.
How to get to Elbrus: By train or plane to Nalchik or Mineralnye Vody, then by bus to Terskol directly or through Tarnyauz. If you are in a hurry, hire a taxi or a car at the airport.
Improve your health in Zheleznovodsk
Stavropol region
For a quiet rest, go to Zheleznovodsk. This is the smallest resort of Caucasian Mineral Waters, the atmosphere there is cozy and slightly nostalgic. To quickly switch to relax mode, delve into the Resort Park with a volume of Pushkin or Lermontov: two centuries earlier, great writers wandered along the same shady paths. Inhale the aromas of linden and jasmine and forget about the city bustle. Admire the dacha of the Emir of Bukhara and guess how many concubines could live in the building-harem. Pump up the sports uniform, reaching the very top of the mountain Iron. And do not forget to bring a glass with you to try mineral water from the most famous sources: Slavyanovsky, Smirnovsky and Lermontovsky.
If you are serious about improving your health, choose a sanatorium on KavMinVody. The Office of the President is responsible for the Oak Grove, so they can treat, feed and surround themselves with care here. From the "Plaza" expect mineral baths, mud applications, Sharko soul, massage, all kinds of spa treatments and, most importantly, European comfort. Between inhalations and hammam, do not forget about exercise therapy - friends will not recognize you after vacation.
The main therapeutic profile of Zheleznovodsk is diseases of the digestive organs, kidneys and urinary tract.
How to get to Zheleznovodsk: The nearest airport is in Mineralnye Vody, from where to Zheleznovodsk - half an hour by bus. Or by train to Beshtau station, then by bus or minibus.
Get into a fairy tale in Sochi Park
Krasnodar region
Sochi Park is like a helicopter on radio control that dads buy under the pretext that it is for a child. A huge theme park, not inferior to “Disneyland”, will attract adults no less than children. Test yourself for strength at the "Quantum Leap" - you will not find a slide faster in Russia. And let the kids have fun on the fairytale carousel. Practice agility by rafting across the pond, and play a huge xylophone. Jump on a trampoline and create a tornado with your own hands. Play sea battle with water cannons and take to the air on a flying ship.
One day in this realm of entertainment and entertaining sciences you, most likely, will not be enough. So it is better to immediately settle in the hotel-castle "Bogatyr" in the neighborhood. In the lobby, you will be greeted by knights, and children will surely be delighted with a two-storey bed with flaps in the Superior room.
How to get to Sochi Park: As you arrive in Sochi, take the speed train "Swallow" to the station "Imeretinsky resort". Another option is bus number 124 from the railway station of Sochi, bus number 100 from the railway station Adler or minibus number 57 from Lenin street in Adler to the stop "Olympic Park".
Set your horse on the Lagonaki Plateau
Maikop district of Adygea and Absheron district of Krasnodar region
If the French Alps don't add up this year, keep your way to the Lagonaca plateau. Cozy chalets do not promise, but alpine meadows and impressive mountains in Adygea abound. And the lack of roquefort and brie is easily compensated by Adyghe cheese: fresh is similar to Greek feta, and smoked has a delicate fragrant crust.
There are few roads to Lagonaki, so explore the idyllic places on foot – it’s good for the figure. Even more interesting is riding a horse. Stay in the village of Hajokh, aka Kamennomostsky, and get out on horseback riding through the enchanting surroundings. A couple of hours is enough to look at Red Lake and Michoko Gorge. In 5 hours, you will visit the Devil’s Finger Rock or catch cold splashes of Rufabgo Falls. And if you want real adventures, go horseback riding for a few days. See the mountains of Fisht, Oshten and Big Thach, and also arrange a photo shoot among rhododendrons, crocuses and lilies.
How to get to the Lagonaca Plateau: The nearest airport is in Krasnodar, further by bus to Hajokh with a transfer in Maykop.
Learn to distinguish Balkar Khychins from Karachay
Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia
If you have already tried fokachu in Italy, naan in India and khachapuri in Georgia, it’s time to switch to khichins. These cakes with potatoes and cheese, as well as meat and greens, are prepared in Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia. But different. Balkar khichins are thin, fry them in a dry pan, and then lubricate them with butter. Karachayevsky - plump like pancakes, and immediately fried in oil. Try both, especially since they will tempt you everywhere in the North Caucasus: from street stalls to a restaurant overlooking the Main Caucasus Range. And to make it even tastier, take an example from the locals and wash down the khichins with ayran or hot tea.
Where to try the real horns: anywhere in Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia.
Look inside the dolmen.
Krasnodar region
Dolmens in the Krasnodar region and Adygea appeared 4-6 thousand years ago - simultaneously with the Egyptian pyramids and the Indian Rigveda. About how and why ancient people built these massive stone houses, scientists have not yet agreed. One thing is clear: they were buried there, and everything else was covered in darkness. You can see the dolmens and guess whether they served as solar observatories on the Jean River in the Krasnodar Territory. Walk along a beautiful forest trail and compare the usual dolmens of plates with those made of smaller boulders. Look into the round holes on the facades and see the preserved ornaments. And then plunge into the azure waters of the river Janet: natural pools right near the waterfalls refresh at once.
How to get to the dolmens on the river Jean: The tour can be ordered anywhere from Anapa to Sochi. If you are set up for an independent trip, go to the village of Revival, which is the entrance to the Jeane Valley. The nearest airport is in Gelendzhik.
Make and fulfill wishes on the Seven Color Lake in Arkhyz
Karachay-Cherkessia
The village of Arkhyz meets with gorgeous landscapes. Among the mountains, waterfalls and short birches are good both in the height of summer and in golden autumn. To see the most beautiful corners, it is not enough to settle in a recreation center. Take a bottle of water, sandwiches and a camera and go explore the surrounding area. Not inspiring to walk long? Then make sure that you have them in the garden. You can still drive by car in the early morning to the Big Dukka River to climb to the high-altitude Lake Semikolne. The round trip takes 8 hours, but the lake, which changes color like a chameleon when the wind blows, is worth it.
How to get to Arkhyz: The nearest airport is Mineralnye Vody, from where buses go to Arkhyz. It is also convenient to travel by train to Mineralnye Vody, Kislovodsk or Pyatigorsk, and then by bus.
To visit Lake Semikolnoye, permits are not required: they will be allowed on the passport of the Russian Federation. But many beautiful places of Arkhyz nearby already enter the border zone. Therefore, it is better to issue a pass in advance - it is fast and free.
Measure stalagmites in the Great Asish Cave
Krasnodar region
To remember the relationship between stalagmites and stalactites and where stalagnates come from, go down a steep staircase to the Greater Asian Cave. In her underground kingdom, inflowing mineral formations grow everywhere, similar to 33 heroes from Pushkin’s fairy tale. Mysticism adds lighting: on the green, blue and red walls, profiles of local spirits are guessed. Tour guides keep the stamp and stories about calcium carbonate are flavored with heart-wrenching tales, after which you look at these huge roaring halls in a new way. If you want to shed light on the most mysterious places, bring a flashlight. Do not forget to rent a jacket at the entrance: the cave is about 5 degrees heat all year round.
Returning to the big land, stretch in the rope park - it is located right at the entrance to the cave. Ride your bike on a tightrope, catch the balance on swaying logs and take a photo on the platform high on the tree. And fear nothing: for your safety is responsible reliable insurance system, just like climbers.
How to get to the Great Asish Cave: The cave is located near the Maikop-Lagonaki road through Hajoh. Buses do not go there, so it is more convenient to go on your own or rental car taken in Krasnodar.
Stay overnight in a flying saucer
Karachay-Cherkessia
In the hotel, you will feel like an alien. A fantastic UFO-like thing stands on the slope of Mount Moussa Achitar in Dombai. You will enter through a reclining hatch, and the rooms themselves resemble cabins with portholes. There are only mountains and silence around – an ideal place for unity with nature, especially after a dense dinner with delicious khits from the hostess. And if you go in the winter and are going to ski or snowboard, in addition, save time and money on the climb from the village of Dombay.
How to get to Dombai: As you arrive in Mineralnye Vody, look for a taxi or take a bus to Dombai with a transfer in Teberda. By train you can reach Mineralnye Vody, Nevinnomyssk or Cherkessk, further by bus.
Get on the skis at Rosa Khutor
Krasnodar region
Rosa Khutor is a Russian ski resort No. 1. Here everything is like in Europe: well-prepared slopes, modern lifts and beautiful hotels along the beautiful promenade. The tracks will appeal to both beginners and “dents” ready for the Olympic downhill. In the evening, go shopping, recuperate at yoga or spa and enjoy a royal dinner overlooking the Aibga Ridge. And if you want a variety, shine at a master class on creating watercolor postcards, shoot with a bow or learn to drive a tiny sports car.
In the summer, you will not be bored at the Rosa Khutor resort. Get a mountain tan on an equipped lake, walk along trekking routes, ride bicycles and horses and boast of your agility in the rope "PandaPark".
How to get to Rosa Khutor: First, to Sochi – by train or plane, then on the speed train “Swallow”, bus or rental car.
Bring home the pine cone jam
Throughout the Caucasus (and in Siberia)
We're serious, you can eat bumps. Especially if it is young pine cones, which were collected in the mountains of the Caucasus and cooked according to the old recipe. Try it without fear: they are very soft, and taste like honey with the aroma of resin and needles. To make it even more pleasant, drink sea buckthorn or herbal tea. Take more jam from pine cones at home: it warms well in winter evenings, and they are also treated with a sore throat and cold. Pine jam is sold in markets and souvenir rows from Gelendzhik to Elbrus.
Choosing edible souvenirs from the Caucasus, do not forget about churchkhela. Yes, this sweet comes from Georgia, but in the North Caucasus it is also perfectly prepared.
Visit one of the oldest cities in Russia
Derbent, Dagestan735832
Exactly how old Derbent is, it is not known. Previously, it was believed that 5000, and in 2012 suddenly issued a decree that enough and 2000. Be that as it may, the city on a three-kilometer strip between the Caspian Sea and the mountains of the Caucasus has long served as a gateway between Europe and Asia and every nook breathes there. And most of all, the fortress of Naryn-Kala and the long Derbent wall on the hill are the portal to the past, besides protected by UNESCO.
Take a look at the Juma Mosque — there is no mosque older than the country — and the deep well that used to serve as a zindan, an underground prison. Wander among the sand walls and imagine how horse riders drove into the gate, and in the baths through a cunning system came water. When you get tired, go down to the city and order a miracle, a Dagestani cake that really looks like a miracle. And khinkal you definitely will not miss: meat, dough, broth and sauce - nothing special, but do not come off until you eat everything to the crumb.
Climb the mountains with a backpack and ice pick
Karachay-Cherkessia
If you have been looking at the mountain peaks for a long time, and something trembles inside from the songs of Vysotsky and Vizbor, take a vacation and go to the alpine camp. In the legendary "Uzunkol" for 20 days of shifts you will learn to walk in a bundle, "clog" in the snow with an ice pick, cross mountain rivers, famously go down and climb a rope - in short, all the basic skills of mountaineering. You will live in simple but romantic houses, and practice under the supervision of harsh masters of sports. In addition, sit by the fire, eat shurps and steam in the bath. And when the holiday comes to an end, get the badge "Alpinist of Russia" and with it - full right to be proud of yourself.
Another famous alpine camper from which you will return as a burnt climber is Bezengi.
How to get to Uzunkol: By train to Nevinnomyssk, Cherkessk or Mineral Waters, or to Min. Water by plane. The easiest way to get to the camp is by pre-ordered transport. Uzunkol is in the border zone, so you need to order a pass. This can be done in the border detachment in Cherkessk, but it is better in advance - on the website of public services. If anything, contact the alpine camper - there will help.
Take a ride along the Georgian Military Road
North Ossetia - Alanya
The military-Georgian road from Vladikavkaz to the then Tiflis through the Darial gorge excites minds since the end of the XVIII century. Now this is not the long way that the crews of the Griboyeds and Lermonts shook, but the beauty has not gone anywhere. To appreciate them fully, drive along this magnificent road in your car. On the Russian side, listen to the noise of Terek, and then turn off the track in the village of Buron to get to the Tsei Gorge and look at the Skazsky glacier, which the locals affectionately call Fairy Tale.
If time permits, cross the border and continue to travel in Georgia – there is not even a visa. From Stepantsminda, do not be lazy to climb to the Trinity Church in Gergeti - it offers a chic view of Kazbek. You will be amazed at the number of watchtowers, cross the Cross Pass and admire the carved walls of the Assumption Church in Ananuri. Stay in Georgia for another week because there are so many interesting things.
The way from Vladikavkaz to Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Road can be skipped in one day. But it is better to take your time and take a better look at these 208 km of solid attractions.
How to get to the Georgian Military Road: You can start your trip in Tbilisi or Vladikavkaz.
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Believe in the miracle at the rock Sail on the Black Sea
Krasnodar region
In search of romance, go to the rock Sail: it rises from the Black Sea, 17 km from Gelendzhik. Wild beach, relic Pitsunda pine trees, gentle surf noise - all this in itself sets up a dreamy way. And now add to the landscape an amazing stone wall with a height of 25 meters - and you will only have to wait for scarlet sails to appear on the horizon.
How to get to the cliff Sail: From the village of Praskovevka to the rock of Parus you will walk in 10 minutes. Just do not forget comfortable shoes: the beach is lined with large pebbles. Praskoveevka is easily accessible from Gelendzhik - 40 minutes by car. published
Source: www.skyscanner.ru/news/luchshie-mesta-na-severnom-kavkaze
Read about the most tasty places of the Russian Caucasus, which can not be missed!
Tickle your nerves in Dargavs
North Ossetia - Alanya
If your blood gets cold in your veins even from movie thrillers, Dargaves is better to bypass. Near this village is the largest necropolis of the Caucasus: almost a hundred crypts on the mountainside. Large and beautiful tombs, similar to the temples of Angkor, belong to noble families, but the rest are equally impressive. If you are not afraid, look out the window to see the bones and mummies. Many are in wooden boats, why is unknown. When the level of horror goes off the scale, move to the 15-meter Mamsurov family tower - the highest in Ossetia. She turned at least four centuries, and the Mamsurovs themselves, according to legend, lead their kind from the mythical Ossetian prince Taga.
How to get to Dargaves: The nearest city with a railway station and an airport is Vladikavkaz. Then take the bus to the village of Jimara or look for a taxi.
Admire Elbrus.
Border of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia
At first glance at the two-headed peak you understand: Elbrus is not an ordinary mountain. Under the expanses of snow and ice, an ancient volcano is hidden, which has been worshipped by different peoples for thousands of years. To join the modern Elbrus fan club, settle in a nice hotel in Terskol or on the Azau glade and give yourself time to get used to the heights. When you feel that the heart is pounding calmly, and at least have enough energy, jump on the rope and soar under the clouds. Get to the top station at an altitude of 3847 meters and feel yourself on another planet.
Want higher? Think carefully if you are ready to climb. It will require good fitness, climbing equipment and an extra week for acclimatization, and the instructor will be responsible for safety. If you are not ready for radical steps, just take a walk and take a spectacular selfie in the snow even in the middle of summer. Going back to the foot, you can go on a horse or go on a mini hike to the waterfall of the Maiden Spit. In the evening, celebrate the acquaintance with the highest peak of Russia and Europe, sipping mulled wine and viewing the starry sky with the silhouettes of the mountains.
How to get to Elbrus: By train or plane to Nalchik or Mineralnye Vody, then by bus to Terskol directly or through Tarnyauz. If you are in a hurry, hire a taxi or a car at the airport.
Improve your health in Zheleznovodsk
Stavropol region
For a quiet rest, go to Zheleznovodsk. This is the smallest resort of Caucasian Mineral Waters, the atmosphere there is cozy and slightly nostalgic. To quickly switch to relax mode, delve into the Resort Park with a volume of Pushkin or Lermontov: two centuries earlier, great writers wandered along the same shady paths. Inhale the aromas of linden and jasmine and forget about the city bustle. Admire the dacha of the Emir of Bukhara and guess how many concubines could live in the building-harem. Pump up the sports uniform, reaching the very top of the mountain Iron. And do not forget to bring a glass with you to try mineral water from the most famous sources: Slavyanovsky, Smirnovsky and Lermontovsky.
If you are serious about improving your health, choose a sanatorium on KavMinVody. The Office of the President is responsible for the Oak Grove, so they can treat, feed and surround themselves with care here. From the "Plaza" expect mineral baths, mud applications, Sharko soul, massage, all kinds of spa treatments and, most importantly, European comfort. Between inhalations and hammam, do not forget about exercise therapy - friends will not recognize you after vacation.
The main therapeutic profile of Zheleznovodsk is diseases of the digestive organs, kidneys and urinary tract.
How to get to Zheleznovodsk: The nearest airport is in Mineralnye Vody, from where to Zheleznovodsk - half an hour by bus. Or by train to Beshtau station, then by bus or minibus.
Get into a fairy tale in Sochi Park
Krasnodar region
Sochi Park is like a helicopter on radio control that dads buy under the pretext that it is for a child. A huge theme park, not inferior to “Disneyland”, will attract adults no less than children. Test yourself for strength at the "Quantum Leap" - you will not find a slide faster in Russia. And let the kids have fun on the fairytale carousel. Practice agility by rafting across the pond, and play a huge xylophone. Jump on a trampoline and create a tornado with your own hands. Play sea battle with water cannons and take to the air on a flying ship.
One day in this realm of entertainment and entertaining sciences you, most likely, will not be enough. So it is better to immediately settle in the hotel-castle "Bogatyr" in the neighborhood. In the lobby, you will be greeted by knights, and children will surely be delighted with a two-storey bed with flaps in the Superior room.
How to get to Sochi Park: As you arrive in Sochi, take the speed train "Swallow" to the station "Imeretinsky resort". Another option is bus number 124 from the railway station of Sochi, bus number 100 from the railway station Adler or minibus number 57 from Lenin street in Adler to the stop "Olympic Park".
Set your horse on the Lagonaki Plateau
Maikop district of Adygea and Absheron district of Krasnodar region
If the French Alps don't add up this year, keep your way to the Lagonaca plateau. Cozy chalets do not promise, but alpine meadows and impressive mountains in Adygea abound. And the lack of roquefort and brie is easily compensated by Adyghe cheese: fresh is similar to Greek feta, and smoked has a delicate fragrant crust.
There are few roads to Lagonaki, so explore the idyllic places on foot – it’s good for the figure. Even more interesting is riding a horse. Stay in the village of Hajokh, aka Kamennomostsky, and get out on horseback riding through the enchanting surroundings. A couple of hours is enough to look at Red Lake and Michoko Gorge. In 5 hours, you will visit the Devil’s Finger Rock or catch cold splashes of Rufabgo Falls. And if you want real adventures, go horseback riding for a few days. See the mountains of Fisht, Oshten and Big Thach, and also arrange a photo shoot among rhododendrons, crocuses and lilies.
How to get to the Lagonaca Plateau: The nearest airport is in Krasnodar, further by bus to Hajokh with a transfer in Maykop.
Learn to distinguish Balkar Khychins from Karachay
Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia
If you have already tried fokachu in Italy, naan in India and khachapuri in Georgia, it’s time to switch to khichins. These cakes with potatoes and cheese, as well as meat and greens, are prepared in Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia. But different. Balkar khichins are thin, fry them in a dry pan, and then lubricate them with butter. Karachayevsky - plump like pancakes, and immediately fried in oil. Try both, especially since they will tempt you everywhere in the North Caucasus: from street stalls to a restaurant overlooking the Main Caucasus Range. And to make it even tastier, take an example from the locals and wash down the khichins with ayran or hot tea.
Where to try the real horns: anywhere in Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia.
Look inside the dolmen.
Krasnodar region
Dolmens in the Krasnodar region and Adygea appeared 4-6 thousand years ago - simultaneously with the Egyptian pyramids and the Indian Rigveda. About how and why ancient people built these massive stone houses, scientists have not yet agreed. One thing is clear: they were buried there, and everything else was covered in darkness. You can see the dolmens and guess whether they served as solar observatories on the Jean River in the Krasnodar Territory. Walk along a beautiful forest trail and compare the usual dolmens of plates with those made of smaller boulders. Look into the round holes on the facades and see the preserved ornaments. And then plunge into the azure waters of the river Janet: natural pools right near the waterfalls refresh at once.
How to get to the dolmens on the river Jean: The tour can be ordered anywhere from Anapa to Sochi. If you are set up for an independent trip, go to the village of Revival, which is the entrance to the Jeane Valley. The nearest airport is in Gelendzhik.
Make and fulfill wishes on the Seven Color Lake in Arkhyz
Karachay-Cherkessia
The village of Arkhyz meets with gorgeous landscapes. Among the mountains, waterfalls and short birches are good both in the height of summer and in golden autumn. To see the most beautiful corners, it is not enough to settle in a recreation center. Take a bottle of water, sandwiches and a camera and go explore the surrounding area. Not inspiring to walk long? Then make sure that you have them in the garden. You can still drive by car in the early morning to the Big Dukka River to climb to the high-altitude Lake Semikolne. The round trip takes 8 hours, but the lake, which changes color like a chameleon when the wind blows, is worth it.
How to get to Arkhyz: The nearest airport is Mineralnye Vody, from where buses go to Arkhyz. It is also convenient to travel by train to Mineralnye Vody, Kislovodsk or Pyatigorsk, and then by bus.
To visit Lake Semikolnoye, permits are not required: they will be allowed on the passport of the Russian Federation. But many beautiful places of Arkhyz nearby already enter the border zone. Therefore, it is better to issue a pass in advance - it is fast and free.
Measure stalagmites in the Great Asish Cave
Krasnodar region
To remember the relationship between stalagmites and stalactites and where stalagnates come from, go down a steep staircase to the Greater Asian Cave. In her underground kingdom, inflowing mineral formations grow everywhere, similar to 33 heroes from Pushkin’s fairy tale. Mysticism adds lighting: on the green, blue and red walls, profiles of local spirits are guessed. Tour guides keep the stamp and stories about calcium carbonate are flavored with heart-wrenching tales, after which you look at these huge roaring halls in a new way. If you want to shed light on the most mysterious places, bring a flashlight. Do not forget to rent a jacket at the entrance: the cave is about 5 degrees heat all year round.
Returning to the big land, stretch in the rope park - it is located right at the entrance to the cave. Ride your bike on a tightrope, catch the balance on swaying logs and take a photo on the platform high on the tree. And fear nothing: for your safety is responsible reliable insurance system, just like climbers.
How to get to the Great Asish Cave: The cave is located near the Maikop-Lagonaki road through Hajoh. Buses do not go there, so it is more convenient to go on your own or rental car taken in Krasnodar.
Stay overnight in a flying saucer
Karachay-Cherkessia
In the hotel, you will feel like an alien. A fantastic UFO-like thing stands on the slope of Mount Moussa Achitar in Dombai. You will enter through a reclining hatch, and the rooms themselves resemble cabins with portholes. There are only mountains and silence around – an ideal place for unity with nature, especially after a dense dinner with delicious khits from the hostess. And if you go in the winter and are going to ski or snowboard, in addition, save time and money on the climb from the village of Dombay.
How to get to Dombai: As you arrive in Mineralnye Vody, look for a taxi or take a bus to Dombai with a transfer in Teberda. By train you can reach Mineralnye Vody, Nevinnomyssk or Cherkessk, further by bus.
Get on the skis at Rosa Khutor
Krasnodar region
Rosa Khutor is a Russian ski resort No. 1. Here everything is like in Europe: well-prepared slopes, modern lifts and beautiful hotels along the beautiful promenade. The tracks will appeal to both beginners and “dents” ready for the Olympic downhill. In the evening, go shopping, recuperate at yoga or spa and enjoy a royal dinner overlooking the Aibga Ridge. And if you want a variety, shine at a master class on creating watercolor postcards, shoot with a bow or learn to drive a tiny sports car.
In the summer, you will not be bored at the Rosa Khutor resort. Get a mountain tan on an equipped lake, walk along trekking routes, ride bicycles and horses and boast of your agility in the rope "PandaPark".
How to get to Rosa Khutor: First, to Sochi – by train or plane, then on the speed train “Swallow”, bus or rental car.
Bring home the pine cone jam
Throughout the Caucasus (and in Siberia)
We're serious, you can eat bumps. Especially if it is young pine cones, which were collected in the mountains of the Caucasus and cooked according to the old recipe. Try it without fear: they are very soft, and taste like honey with the aroma of resin and needles. To make it even more pleasant, drink sea buckthorn or herbal tea. Take more jam from pine cones at home: it warms well in winter evenings, and they are also treated with a sore throat and cold. Pine jam is sold in markets and souvenir rows from Gelendzhik to Elbrus.
Choosing edible souvenirs from the Caucasus, do not forget about churchkhela. Yes, this sweet comes from Georgia, but in the North Caucasus it is also perfectly prepared.
Visit one of the oldest cities in Russia
Derbent, Dagestan735832
Exactly how old Derbent is, it is not known. Previously, it was believed that 5000, and in 2012 suddenly issued a decree that enough and 2000. Be that as it may, the city on a three-kilometer strip between the Caspian Sea and the mountains of the Caucasus has long served as a gateway between Europe and Asia and every nook breathes there. And most of all, the fortress of Naryn-Kala and the long Derbent wall on the hill are the portal to the past, besides protected by UNESCO.
Take a look at the Juma Mosque — there is no mosque older than the country — and the deep well that used to serve as a zindan, an underground prison. Wander among the sand walls and imagine how horse riders drove into the gate, and in the baths through a cunning system came water. When you get tired, go down to the city and order a miracle, a Dagestani cake that really looks like a miracle. And khinkal you definitely will not miss: meat, dough, broth and sauce - nothing special, but do not come off until you eat everything to the crumb.
Climb the mountains with a backpack and ice pick
Karachay-Cherkessia
If you have been looking at the mountain peaks for a long time, and something trembles inside from the songs of Vysotsky and Vizbor, take a vacation and go to the alpine camp. In the legendary "Uzunkol" for 20 days of shifts you will learn to walk in a bundle, "clog" in the snow with an ice pick, cross mountain rivers, famously go down and climb a rope - in short, all the basic skills of mountaineering. You will live in simple but romantic houses, and practice under the supervision of harsh masters of sports. In addition, sit by the fire, eat shurps and steam in the bath. And when the holiday comes to an end, get the badge "Alpinist of Russia" and with it - full right to be proud of yourself.
Another famous alpine camper from which you will return as a burnt climber is Bezengi.
How to get to Uzunkol: By train to Nevinnomyssk, Cherkessk or Mineral Waters, or to Min. Water by plane. The easiest way to get to the camp is by pre-ordered transport. Uzunkol is in the border zone, so you need to order a pass. This can be done in the border detachment in Cherkessk, but it is better in advance - on the website of public services. If anything, contact the alpine camper - there will help.
Take a ride along the Georgian Military Road
North Ossetia - Alanya
The military-Georgian road from Vladikavkaz to the then Tiflis through the Darial gorge excites minds since the end of the XVIII century. Now this is not the long way that the crews of the Griboyeds and Lermonts shook, but the beauty has not gone anywhere. To appreciate them fully, drive along this magnificent road in your car. On the Russian side, listen to the noise of Terek, and then turn off the track in the village of Buron to get to the Tsei Gorge and look at the Skazsky glacier, which the locals affectionately call Fairy Tale.
If time permits, cross the border and continue to travel in Georgia – there is not even a visa. From Stepantsminda, do not be lazy to climb to the Trinity Church in Gergeti - it offers a chic view of Kazbek. You will be amazed at the number of watchtowers, cross the Cross Pass and admire the carved walls of the Assumption Church in Ananuri. Stay in Georgia for another week because there are so many interesting things.
The way from Vladikavkaz to Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Road can be skipped in one day. But it is better to take your time and take a better look at these 208 km of solid attractions.
How to get to the Georgian Military Road: You can start your trip in Tbilisi or Vladikavkaz.
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Believe in the miracle at the rock Sail on the Black Sea
Krasnodar region
In search of romance, go to the rock Sail: it rises from the Black Sea, 17 km from Gelendzhik. Wild beach, relic Pitsunda pine trees, gentle surf noise - all this in itself sets up a dreamy way. And now add to the landscape an amazing stone wall with a height of 25 meters - and you will only have to wait for scarlet sails to appear on the horizon.
How to get to the cliff Sail: From the village of Praskovevka to the rock of Parus you will walk in 10 minutes. Just do not forget comfortable shoes: the beach is lined with large pebbles. Praskoveevka is easily accessible from Gelendzhik - 40 minutes by car. published
Source: www.skyscanner.ru/news/luchshie-mesta-na-severnom-kavkaze
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